Houston Rockets must sit Yao Ming the entire 2009-10 season

Lose the battle, but win the war.

This has to be the philosophy the Houston Rockets take with Yao Ming’s injured foot. Translation: the club must sit their star post for the entire year and shoot for a return to action in 2010-11 …NBA news mixed with analysis …

Their News:"Yao Ming is progressing well. I don’t think that [a career-ending scenario] is something that will happen, based on what I’m hearing from the doctors," Morey told Alipour. "They do know that the bone will heal and he’ll get back on it. And they have not actually ruled out [his return] this season."(ESPN News)

My Gut Reaction: Lose the battle, but win the war.

This has to be the philosophy the Houston Rockets take with Yao Ming’s injured foot. Translation: the club must sit their star post for the entire year and shoot for a return to action in 2010-11.

That’s right. Yao shouldn’t suit up all season.

It doesn’t matter if he feels healthy. It doesn’t matter if his teammates could use him on-court to clinch a playoff spot or secure a seed in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.

In fact, the Rockets shouldn’t have announced there was even a slight chance Yao could return. Here’s why:

First, by publicly stating there was the possibility of a comeback, GM Daryl Morey has put unnecessary pressure on his franchise face. Suddenly, there are expectations. And some fans and media will be disappointed if he doesn’t find a way to play.

Second, he should take the time to rebuild his body. Over the last four years, Yao has missed an average of 22 games per season. Something is off. If things aren’t corrected, other injuries will surely occur with age.

Houston should take this opportunity to review all aspects of Yao’s health. For instance, club doctors must examine his training, diet, posture, and genetics to find out why he’s injury-prone. He’s already out, so it makes sense to try and prevent future ailments.

The Rockets need to consider the big picture. This means sitting Yao for the entire year.Get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts on Yao’s future in 2009-10. And follow Oly on HoopsVibe and Twitter. Image courtesy of Keith Allison.